Choosing the right saxophone, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or professional, is a significant decision. The saxophone market can be overwhelming, and it’s important to gather information about different types and brands and to find out, what brands you should avoid.
Beginners often grapple with questions like whether to go for a new or vintage saxophone, pricing, features, and skill level. For instance, starting with an alto saxophone is common for beginners due to its user-friendliness. On the other hand, bass or soprano saxophones require more advanced skills.
The goal is to invest in a saxophone that offers both value for your money and helps you develop your musical skills. In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 saxophone brands to assist you in making an informed choice and steer you away from instruments that may not meet your expectations
Exploring the Elite: The Top 20 Saxophone Brands
Here is the list again with official website links for each saxophone brand:
1. Selmer
- Renowned French brand established in 1885
- Makes professional model saxophones like the Selmer Paris Series
- Used by famous musicians like John Coltrane and Wayne Shorter Selmer Official Website
2. Yamaha
- Leading Japanese musical instrument company
- Known for consistent quality and durability
- Offers student models like the YAS-23 alto saxophone Yamaha Official Website
3. Yanagisawa
- Esteemed Japanese saxophone manufacturer since 1953
- Handcrafts professional saxophones with meticulous precision
- Models used by jazz greats like Joe Lovano and Lee Konitz Yanagisawa Official Website
4. Keilwerth
- German brand crafting saxophones since 1925
- Favored for its warm, resonant sound
- Artisan saxes with hand-engraved decoration Keilwerth Official Website
5. P. Mauriat
- Taiwanese company founded in 2000
- Fast-growing brand gaining popularity
- Focus on value, catering to students and professionals P. Mauriat Official Website
6. Cannonball
- Boutique American saxophone maker
- Bold, unique designs with stylized engraving
- Endorsed by artists like Gerald Albright Cannonball Official Website
7. Antigua Winds, Inc.
- Company offering a range of saxophones
- Known for producing saxophones for players of all levels
- Good entry-level options for beginners and intermediate players Antigua Winds, Inc. Official Website
8. Eastman
- Company based in China with facilities in Beijing
- Well-regarded for quality instruments at lower prices
- Great value for intermediate and pro players Eastman Official Website
9. Buffet Crampon
- Historic French woodwind maker since 1825
- Also makes clarinets and other instruments
- Prestigious Paris saxophones handmade in France Buffet Crampon Official Website
10. Trevor James
- British saxophone brand founded in 1972
- Known for affordability and consistency
- Good student and intermediate models Trevor James Official Website
11. Conn Selmer
- Leading US band instrument manufacturer
- Makes professional Cannonball saxophones
- Also produces entry-level student sax models Conn Selmer Official Website
12. Allora
- A company focused on beginner instruments
- Durable, easy-playing student saxophones
- Great starter option for new sax players Allora Official Website
13. Jupiter
- Company of KHS Musical Instruments
- Quality student models at affordable prices
- Dedicated to education and student musicians Jupiter Official Website
14. Vito
- Originally US-based company, now owned by KHS
- Makes reliable, consistent student saxophones
- Great for beginners starting out Vito Wikipedia Page
15. Bundy
- Were staples in most band rooms in North America for decades.
- Not available
- Selmer Bundy available on auctions
16. King
- Former American saxophone brand now owned by Conn Selmer
- Intermediate and professional models
- Classic designs with rich history King Official Website
17. Buescher
- Vintage American sax brand founded in 1894
- Iconic original designs with Art Deco detail, coveted by collectors and vintage enthusiasts
- 1963 Buescher Band Instrument Company was taken over by H. & A. Selmer
18. Martin
- Focused on handcrafted saxophones, German manufacturer
- In 1871 the company was destroyed by fire
- 1971 was taken over by the French company LeBlanc. Here is Martin’s Wiki Page.
19. Leblanc
- Historic French maker, now part of Conn Selmer
- Well-regarded intermediate models
- A reliable choice for developing players Leblanc Wikipedia Page
20. Rampone & Cazzani
- Esteemed Italian brand since 1920
- Hand-hammered bronze and silver saxes
- Uniquely dark, complex tone Rampone & Cazzani Official Website
Saxophone Brands to Avoid
Sure, saxophones are not cheap, and one thing in advance – a good but cheap instrument you can not find. We have presented above the ones that sell great and many users report that they are satisfied. Nevertheless, they are on our list of “to avoid”. Reasons for this we have briefly mentioned So let’s get started:
- Jean-Paul – It may suffice for testing, but it doesn’t excel in quality. Despite being the first one on our “to avoid” list, it’s the best option within this category of cheap Saxophones. If a Yamaha, Jupiter, or Selmer is too expensive, you can consider it for initial testing.
- 2, Mendini by Cecilio – A cheap brand but very popular among beginners, according to Amazon reviews. In our opinion, with their cheap models, they fall short in terms of quality control and materials, leading to issues with intonation and durability.(below you’ll find more about their sax)
- 3. GLORY – This brand shares the same inconsistency. While it’s affordable, the quality and intonation vary significantly among their instruments. Their saxophones are a best-seller but not really high quality.
- 4. LyxJam – Offers saxophones at extremely low prices but is plagued by structural issues and questionable build quality. While some Amazon customers are satisfied, it’s essential to consider your needs. We’ve categorized their saxophones under ‘Sax Brands to Avoid.’
- 5. Sky – Features very cheap Chinese saxophones with numerous complaints about faulty keys, pads, and adjusting screws. Our advice: don’t buy it!
- 8. Summina – Known for poor-quality materials and construction, leading to significant durability issues over time.
- 7. Eastar – Low-end saxophones from this brand are best avoided. They prioritize low cost, leading to issues with materials, craftsmanship, and quality control. While they have interesting designs, quality is inconsistent, often resulting in intonation and mechanical problems. Also, don’t confuse this with Eastern brand (not to be mistaken for Eastar)
- 8. Lazarro – simply, avoid it!
The brands above are known for cutting corners to offer ultra-affordable options, but be mindful of the potential compromises in quality and performance when considering these saxophones for your musical journey. Always research thoroughly and consider your needs before making a purchase decision, especially if you want to avoid bad saxophone brands.
The Best Beginner Alto Saxophones
Looking to buy your first alto saxophone but overwhelmed by the options? As a beginner, you need an instrument that is affordable, durable, and easy to play with a decent tone. Three excellent choices meeting these criteria are the Yamaha YAS-280, Prelude by Conn-Selmer AS711, and Jupiter JAS700 student model saxophones.
1. The best Sax for Beginners: The Yamaha YAS-280 Alto Saxophone
The Yamaha YAS-280 is an improvement to the YAS-275. This instrument is good for beginners because of its light nature and that it has been properly shaped to make holding and playing easier.
Yamaha in general is one of the most popular student alto sax brands thanks to its consistent build quality, reliable intonation, and reasonable price. Yamaha has a reputation for durable instruments that last through years of practice. The YAS-280 produces a nice warm tone and feels great under the fingers, making it comfortable for new players. This is a great option for beginners. It has a high F# key, adjustable thumb rest, and comes with a case and mouthpiece
Versatile Entry-Level Choice
The Yamaha 280 alto saxophone stands out as an ideal entry-level instrument suitable for both beginners and students. Its reputation for reliability and versatility has made it a popular choice for those starting their musical journey.
Professional Build Quality
One of the key strengths of the Yamaha 280 is its professional-level construction. It features a post-to-body design, mirroring the older Yamaha models. This means each post is individually soldered to the body, ensuring a high-quality build. The redesigned key shapes for the B flat and C sharp keys make it user-friendly, especially for younger students with smaller hands.
Quality Craftsmanship and Sound
The saxophone is equipped with synthetic cork and brown nylon resonators. The well-cut pads ensure a precise fit. While it comes with a Yamaha mouthpiece suitable for beginners, it accommodates other mouthpieces for players who wish to personalize their sound. This instrument is not only a performer but also retains its value over time, making it a sound investment for both novice and more experienced players.
Here is a link to the item on amazon and some reviews from clients
2. The second best: is Prelude Alto Sax by Conn-Selmer AS711
Selmer is a well-recognized brand for musical instruments, and their Prelude AS711 Alto Sax showed their mastery. This saxophone is considered by far one of the best options for beginners.
The SAS 711 series, replacing the AS42, is an impressive entry-level professional saxophone that has garnered attention from music experts and saxophonists. Nikki Roman, an Assistant Professor of Saxophone at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a soprano saxophonist with the Fuego Quartet, praises its remarkable qualities.
Improved Intonation in the Upper Register
One of the most notable features of the SAS 711 is its impeccable intonation, especially in the upper register. It demonstrates a significant improvement in this aspect, making notes like C and C sharp, as well as the palm keys, perfectly in tune. This ensures a smooth and accurate performance, essential for students and professionals alike.
Exceptional Response Across All Ranges
The saxophone exhibits a fantastic response across its entire range, from the low register to the palm keys. This is particularly valuable for students and professionals who need to navigate through extreme ranges effortlessly. The ease of play it offers is a substantial advantage.
Professional-level sound and Versatility
What sets the SAS 711 apart is its sound quality, which rivals professional-level horns. It allows for a diverse range of sounds and tone colors. The upper register shines with its clear, present sound, requiring minimal effort from the player.
3. Also great: JAS700 Alto Student Saxophone
Finally, Jupiter’s top-selling JAS700 student model alto is worth considering if you want amazing value.
The JAS700 is best suited for beginners and comes with all the advanced features that one needs for learning. It has been built to produce good quality sound and is strong enough for rigorous student use.
This is a beautiful piece that has been designed using the current technology to ensure accuracy and improve playability. It is gold covered with its keys made from high-quality brass that gives it good durability.
The Jupiter 700 Series: Versatile for Beginners and Advanced Players
Coming to you from the land down under, the Jupiter 700 Series alto saxophone is a model that appeals to both beginners and advanced players. It’s a highly acclaimed student sax with a host of practical features. Let’s explore what sets this saxophone apart, and then we’ll let the music speak for itself.
Crafted with Global Expertise
Jupiter, the second-largest global manufacturer of brass and woodwind instruments, showcases its exceptional craftsmanship in the 700 Series. This saxophone is meticulously constructed with Japanese brass, resulting in a rich and powerful sound. The integration of Italian-made leather pads and Canadian silver solder demonstrates Jupiter’s commitment to quality, merging components from across the world.
Enhanced Playability for Students
On the left hand of the instrument, you’ll find a fully adjustable palm key system. Perfect for growing hands, these keys can be easily raised and lowered using standard octave key mechanisms. This thoughtful feature ensures that young players can adapt their saxophone as they develop. The ergonomic and comfortable keywork further enhances the overall playability.
Simplified Adjustments for Technicians
For your technician’s convenience, the Jupiter 700 Series includes a full set of adjusting screws on both the left and right-hand stacks. These screws facilitate swift and precise adjustments, ensuring your saxophone maintains its best performance.
Thoughtful Design Details
The low notes feature split key guards with fully adjustable felts, adding another layer of functionality. An uncommon yet highly appreciated feature is the key height adjusting screw for the left-hand G. Jupiter’s attention to such details sets this saxophone apart.
Practicality and Protection
The saxophone comes with a backpack case that boasts ample storage space for your accessories, sheet music, lunch, and whatever else you need for your musical journey.
Bonus Inclusion: Clark Fobes Debut Mouthpiece
To sweeten the deal, while supplies last, you’ll receive a Clark Fobes Debut mouthpiece—an American-made student mouthpiece of exceptional quality. A thoughtful addition to support developing players.
When shopping for your first alto sax, go for trusted brands like Yamaha, Conn-Selmer, and Jupiter. Models like the YAS-280, AS711, and JAS700 offer quality construction, sound, and playability at reasonable prices – ideal for any beginner’s needs.
These were our top three choices. However, below, we’ll outline some other popular options. While these may not be as feature-rich, their affordability makes them suitable for beginners.
Let’s kick things off by discussing Jean-Paul Saxophones. While they find themselves on our “to avoid” list, they still hold a unique place as some of the best budget-friendly saxophones on the market.
Best Cheap Saxophones
Jean-Paul AS-400 Saxophone Alto
The Jean Paul AS400 Saxophone: Affordable Brilliance
For the budget-conscious saxophonist, the Jean Paul AS400 offers an enticing opportunity. While it’s not a top-rated brand, its performance and quality may surprise you.
The AS400 arrives with a reasonable assortment of accessories, including cork grease, a neck strap, reed, and a manual with a fingering chart. The inclusion of an additional ligature and cap is a nice touch, rarely seen in this price range.
Impressive Build Quality
Mechanically, the saxophone feels solid and well-lubricated. Blue steel springs offer good key action, and adjustment screws, often absent in student saxophones, facilitate easy setup and reduce repair costs.
Upon inspection, the AS400 features ribbed construction, rarely found in budget models. Cork work is generally well done, with corks featuring beveled cuts for a professional touch. Metal resonators on the pads add to its performance.
While there are minor blemishes like uneven neck soldering, overall, the saxophone seems well-prepared, ready to play out of the box.
Play Test: A Surprising Delight
Despite its budget-friendly price, the AS400 sounds impressive. With its dark, smoky tone, it’s perfect for beginners. It’s not in the same league as professional instruments, but for students and intermediates, it’s a great choice.
Don’t let the budget tag fool you; the Jean Paul AS400 is worth considering if you’re on a tight budget and desire a saxophone that plays well out of the box. This horn is a testament to the idea that you don’t always need to break the bank to produce beautiful music.
Jean-Paul TS-400 Student Saxophone (Tenor)
The Jean-Paul C S400 Tenor Saxophone is a suitable choice for those entering the realm of intermediate beginner-intermediate saxophones, priced at approximately $700-$800. Its demonstration showcased a wide tonal range, revealing good capabilities considering its cost.
Jean-Paul C S400 Tenor Sax: Quality on a Budget
This sax offers consistent performance, handling low and high notes with ease, even without any added effects. While it may not rival top-tier brands like Selmer, it provides excellent tone quality for its price.
The instrument typically arrives well-adjusted, requiring minimal setup. It’s slightly bulkier than professional models but still offers good playability. While it’s not a replacement for high-end saxes, the Jean-Paul C S400 makes for a decent backup instrument or a cost-effective choice for beginners.
Check out the reviews and pricing of this item on Amazon
Sound vs. Price: Comparing an $800 vs. an $1800 Tenor Saxophone
Materials Matter Less Than You Think
In this comparison, we evaluate the audible distinctions between an $800 tenor saxophone and an $1800 model, demonstrating that the price tag doesn’t always dictate sound quality. The role of the mouthpiece in shaping the sound becomes evident. Instead, the primary contrast lies in the quality of materials and construction.
Comfort and Longevity: Professional vs. Student Saxophones
Discover the added comfort and durability professional saxophones offer. Features that enhance comfort make them ideal for extended playing sessions. If you’re just starting out, it’s recommended to begin with a student saxophone. However, as you advance and can properly maintain an instrument, investing in a professional saxophone becomes a worthwhile choice. For beginners, we offer a free saxophone course on our website to ensure a solid start.
A Highly Affordable Saxophone to Approach with Caution
Mendini by Cecilio Eb Alto Sax is on our list to avoid but is quite popular according to Amazon reviews. It’s not a serious option for those seeking a quality saxophone, but it can be considered for testing purposes if you’re on a very tight budget.
Mendini by Cecilio MAS Alto saxophone
The Pitfalls of Cecilia Mendini Saxophones
Upon initial inspection, these saxophones might appear shiny and complete, but one crucial tool, the leak light, exposes some shoddy work.
Spotlight on Saxophone Issues
The top key exhibits a glaring flaw. Not only does it leak, but the key is completely misaligned. There are no dents or apparent issues, just poor craftsmanship.
The bottom keys have the same problem: leaks on one side and uneven tone holes. Even minor leaks can render these instruments unplayable.
Cecilia Mendini saxophones may play fine for a short time, but when adjustments or leak repairs become necessary, you’ll face substantial costs.
When you decide to purchase a saxophone, consider getting a leak light; it might be the tool that steers you clear of potential disasters. Good luck in your search for a dependable horn.
Decoding Yamaha’s Beginner Saxophones: A Comprehensive Comparison
Unlocking the Legacy of Yamaha Beginner Saxophones
For decades, Yamaha has been the torchbearer of excellence when it comes to beginner saxophones. Their journey commenced with the Yamaha YAS 23, an instrument that rolled off the production line over 40 years ago. Yamaha’s hallmark has always been impeccable ergonomics and unmatched build quality, setting the gold standard among beginner saxophones. Yamaha’s unique selling proposition revolves around paying more for superior quality. Today, Yamaha continues to craft exceptional entry-level saxophones. But the question lingers: how much more should you invest in a Yamaha saxophone compared to its more budget-friendly counterparts? Are we talking double the price, triple the price, or even quadruple the price?
Yamaha YAS 23: A Legendary Beginnings
The YAS 23, with its roots in Japan, has engraved its name in the annals of saxophone history. The Japanese craftsmanship stands out, ensuring lightweight construction and superb ergonomics. This saxophone exhibits impeccable tuning, clarity, and projection, aligning with all the requisites of a beginner sax. Yet, it’s not without its quirks. Transitioning between certain keys, such as B and C sharp or B flat and C sharp on the left-hand table, can be a bit tricky. Additionally, the lack of a high F sharp key might impact some classical players’ preferences. The YAS 23 doesn’t come with an intricate case, which might be a drawback for students requiring extra storage.
This saxophone provides great intonation and flexible key action, meaning they are a great choice for band members starting out.
This is a fantastic choice for a starter saxophone
Yamaha YAS 26: An Evolution in Progress
The YAS 26 inherits the YAS 23’s fundamental design but hails from Indonesia. This shift doesn’t compromise the Yamaha reputation for quality control. Yamaha has rectified issues present in the YAS 23 by streamlining the left-hand table and revamping the octave key design. The inclusion of an adjustable thumb rest accommodates personal preferences but, in most cases, doesn’t require adjustment from its default position. The YAS 26 maintains the gold lacquer body with silver-colored nickel keys, a clear indicator of a Yamaha entry-level model. Still, there’s no high F sharp key, and the case remains simplistic.
Yamaha YAS 280: The Upgrade Unveiled
The YAS 280 is akin to the YAS 26 but addresses several of the earlier model’s drawbacks. It presents itself with gold lacquer enveloping the entire body, achieving a more polished look. The saxophone adds a high F sharp key, a feature valued by some players. The case supplied with the YAS 280 excels with additional pockets, shoulder straps, and sturdy construction. This saxophone sits on the cusp of professional-level instruments, making it an attractive choice for advancing players.
The Sonic Journey: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Now, it’s time to let your ears decide. We present a side-by-side sound comparison between the Yamaha YAS 23, YAS 26, and YAS 280. The distinct tonal characteristics of these instruments come to life, showcasing the evolution of Yamaha’s beginner saxophones.
Pricing Discrepancies: A Shocking Reality
The Yamaha pricing scenario in the United States defies logic. The YAS 23 aligns with global pricing, offering a fair deal. Yet, the YAS 26 takes an astonishing leap in price, selling for a hefty $2,428 without sales tax. Surprisingly, this steep price is echoed by multiple retailers, creating a baffling paradox. Yamaha’s justification for this pricing anomaly remains elusive, leaving consumers bewildered.
YAS 280: The Hidden Gem
In the midst of this pricing anomaly, the YAS 280 emerges as the elusive answer. This saxophone, not officially sold in the US, is an upgraded YAS 26. With a price tag of $869, it offers all the refinements needed without the exorbitant premium seen in the YAS 26 pricing. Savvy buyers can find it through select sellers on Amazon, bypassing the baffling pricing concerns.
For those seeking the sweet harmonies of a Yamaha saxophone journey, here are our recommendations:
- YAS 23: An iconic choice for budget-conscious players, especially if opting for second-hand models.
- YAS 26: A competent saxophone that bridges the gap between beginner and intermediate levels, albeit at a questionable price in the US.
- YAS 280: The uncharted territory, a hidden gem offering features that align with professional instruments. It’s the smart choice, particularly for players in search of the best value.
Yamaha 480 – Our Top pick for Intermediate Eb Alto Saxophone
One of the top sax brands that appear on almost any list of musical instruments is Yamaha. This brand is known for its amazing construction as well as for using high-quality materials when crafting their instruments. This brand always aims to improve its products by taking client recommendations into account when improving features.
Exceptional Intermediate Saxophone
The Yamaha 480 alto saxophone is a standout among intermediate-level instruments, delivering top-notch quality without breaking the bank. Popular in school bands, college, and university marching bands, the 480 is the perfect companion for students looking to hone their skills and experienced players in need of a reliable backup.
Upgraded Features
Introduced in 2011, the 480 brought significant enhancements over its predecessor, the 475. With improved keywork up to F-sharp high and delicate hand engraving on the bell, it boasts an elegant design. The new neck, inspired by the renowned 62 design, provides excellent responsiveness and precise intonation. These necks are also compatible with Yamaha custom options, allowing you to fine-tune your sound with a professional upgrade when the time is right.
Complete Package
Available in gold lacquer and silver-plated finishes, the 480 comes complete with essential accessories, including a Yamaha 4C hard rubber mouthpiece, ligature, mouthpiece cover, cork grease, and a neck strap. Yamaha’s impressive 5-year warranty guarantees long-lasting performance.
Here is a link to where you can find it on Amazon
Proffessional Level: Yanagisawa Saxophones – WO1, WO10 & WO20
Yanagisawa’s Wo Series Saxophones: A Comprehensive Review
Yanagisawa, a renowned name in the world of saxophones, introduces its new series of saxophones: the Wo Series. In this article, we will delve into the unique features and characteristics of the Wo 1, Wo 10, and Wo 20 saxophones, accompanied by insights from our expert, Ben Sutcliffe.
Wo 1: A Fantastic Entry-Level Saxophone
The Wo 1 replaces the 901 series and brings several improvements, particularly in its keywork. Notable enhancements include a streamlined front F key that allows effortless access. The new placement of the high E key in the right-hand stack and the redesigned low E-flat and low C keys contribute to the saxophone’s exceptional ergonomics. It’s an ideal choice for beginners and budget-conscious players, offering excellent playability and reliable quality. Ben Sutcliffe describes it as “lively” and “fast” due to its post or poster body construction, setting it apart from many other student saxophones.
Wo 10: A Step Up in Sound
The Wo 10 stands out with its brass body, offering a slightly weightier and warmer sound compared to the Wo 1. Ben appreciates the consistent keywork layout across the Yanagisawa series, making it easy for players to transition between models. He highlights the unique “double arm” design in the lower section of the saxophone, adding to its tonal depth and resistance. These instruments play exceptionally well straight out of the box, showcasing Yanagisawa’s commitment to impeccable build quality.
Wo 20: Exquisite Bronze Elegance
Yanagisawa’s Wo 20 saxophone is crafted from bronze, and it’s a sight to behold. The material may affect the sound’s texture, but not necessarily the weight. With its sleek, lively, and somewhat darker tone, the Wo 20 is a versatile alto sax. Ben Sutcliffe notes that it has slightly more resistance, but this translates to a rich and powerful projection. The metal resonator pads help balance out the dark nature of bronze, adding sparkle and crispness to the articulation.
In conclusion, Yanagisawa’s Wo Series saxophones offer a diverse range of options to cater to players’ preferences. Whether you’re an aspiring student or a seasoned performer, Yanagisawa’s meticulous craftsmanship and innovative designs shine through in these saxophones. Their outstanding ergonomics, versatility, and exceptional playability make them an excellent choice for any musician. Discover the nuances and distinct characteristics of each model within the Wo Series and embark on your musical journey with Yanagisawa’s exceptional saxophones.
Final Thoughts – What Saxophone is the best choice?
When choosing the best saxophone, you need to consider the main factors, such as the affordability of the item, your level of expertise, and even personal preference. This is why it’s always advisable to test the sax when possible to determine whether it is the right piece for you.
When purchasing a saxophone, it is crucial to be well-prepared. Thorough research and hands-on experience with these instruments will empower you to make an informed choice. With this guide, I aim to assist you in making the right decision before making your purchase. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of saxophone brands to avoid, as subpar instruments can hinder your musical journey.